Lupus falls under the category of autoimmune disorders which force the immune system to turn on itself and target good healthy cells in the body instead of working to fight off external viruses, bacteria, and infections. This compromises the integrity of an essential system in the human body, thus making it vulnerable to common infections.

This could lead to severe medical complications, which is why lupus signs and symptoms should not be ignored. Immediate medical attention is advised when the first symptoms show up. Here are some of the common and noticeable ones for your reference.

Dry mouth and dry eyes: Certain glands in the body are responsible for tear and saliva production, which tend to malfunction thus causing dry eyes and mouth. This is one of the developing lupus signs and symptoms, which can often be confused with a mild infection due to other autoimmune disorders.

Fatigue: Fatigue can often be misconstrued as being a symptom of excess activity or physical exertion. However, unexplained fatigue even after a good night’s sleep or rest can be one of the indicators of developing lupus.

Fever: Sudden and frequent bouts of fever, which can occur for no apparent reason at all also indicates problems with your immune system, despite all the precautions you have taken to stay healthy.

Thyroid problems: The thyroid gland can also get affected due to this autoimmune disorder. The thyroid gland is responsible for anything and everything that is connected to your metabolism for controlling vital bodily and organ functions. Thyroid problems will lead to a number of medical complications, if not checked and treated in time.

Hair loss: Hair loss or hair thinning is one of the main and first lupus signs and symptoms. Skin and scalp inflammation will lead to weakened roots. Apart from hair thinning, loss of facial hair like your beard, eyebrows, and eyelashes are all noticeable indicators of developing lupus.

Gastro problems: Acid reflux and heartburn are some of the more common lupus signs and symptoms, indicating gastrointestinal problems. Mild problems can be treated with OTC medications; however, persistent acid reflux and heartburn is cause for concern.

Skin rashes: One of the most noticeable symptoms, which is a visible indicator of developing lupus. The rash will mainly appear over the bridge of your nose covering the cheeks with an uncanny resemblance to a butterfly. Around 50% of people who develop lupus signs and symptoms will be affected by this rash.

Joint problems: Inflammation is the number one cause of pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. Irrespective of its condition which can be anything from mild to severe, medical attention is advised when the pain is persistent and the swelling becomes permanent.

Kidney problems: Nephritis is a condition which developed by people who are already suffering from lupus signs and symptoms, which leads to inflammation of your kidneys. The inflammation will restrict normal kidney function which includes filtration of toxins and waste, thereby purifying the blood.

Chest pains: The pulmonary veins tend to get inflamed due to lupus, which leads to swelling of blood vessels in the lungs. This can result in mild or severe chest pain often referred to as pleuritic chest pain.